Independent Commission for Reconciliation and Information Recovery 2023-06-21
2023-06-21
TAGS
Response quality
Questions & Answers
Q1
Partial Answer
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Context
The question arises from the ongoing efforts to establish a commission aimed at resolving historical issues related to the Northern Ireland Troubles.
What recent progress his Department has made on establishing the Independent Commission for Reconciliation and Information Recovery. I have been raising this issue in the Chamber over the past three and a half years, but after 40 years of waiting, Mr Vaughan-Jones and his family have never received a conclusive account of what happened to his brother Robert, 2 Para, at Warrenpoint in 1979.
My hon. Friend raises a critical point and I would be delighted to meet her to talk about it. As I said earlier, many families across Northern Ireland and Great Britain still do not have the answers they require about the acts of serious harm committed in the troubles. The system has not worked as it is, which is why we need to pass the Bill and establish the ICRIR as soon as possible.
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Assessment & feedback
Specific meeting arrangements were not detailed
Response accuracy
Q2
Partial Answer
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Context
The question relates to a supplementary query about the Independent Commission for Reconciliation and Information Recovery, focusing on the need for families of victims like Mr Vaughan-Jones' brother Robert to receive conclusive accounts.
I welcome the progress made towards establishing the Independent Commission for Reconciliation and Information Recovery, but after 40 years of waiting—I have also been raising the case in the Chamber over the past three and a half years—Mr Vaughan-Jones and his family have never received a conclusive account of what happened to his brother Robert, 2 Para, at Warrenpoint in 1979. Will the Secretary of State agree to meet me to discuss the case and progress?
My hon. Friend raises a critical point and I would be delighted to meet her to talk about it. As I said earlier, many families across Northern Ireland and Great Britain still do not have the answers they require about the acts of serious harm committed in the troubles. The system has not worked as it is, which is why we need to pass the Bill and establish the ICRIR as soon as possible.
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Assessment & feedback
Specific meeting arrangements were not detailed
Response accuracy
Q3
Direct Answer
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Context
The question concerns the need for reconciliation and information recovery, with a focus on ensuring that innocent victims receive priority from the Northern Ireland Office.
I thank the Secretary of State for that answer. When it comes to recognising the need for reconciliation and information recovery, it can never, ever be a substitute for victims' access to justice. Will he confirm that innocent victims will always be a priority for the Northern Ireland Office and this Government?
I can do that, 100%. The hon. Gentleman is completely right.
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Assessment & feedback
Response accuracy